I respectfully urge our Utah legislators to reconsider any proposal that would restrict food assistance for immigrant families in our state. In a community shaped by principles of compassion, self‑reliance and wise stewardship, ensuring that families — especially children — have enough to eat reflects our deepest values and strengthens our future.
Many of the families affected contribute daily to our economy in agriculture, construction, caregiving and essential services. Others are seeking stability and safety. Many are also active members of your congregations — people who sit beside you in worship, volunteer in your service projects, and raise their children in the same faith traditions that guide your own decisions.
Restricting food assistance does not save money; it shifts costs. Food insecurity leads to higher health care spending, increased emergency room use and greater strain on child welfare systems. National research shows food‑insecure adults incur about $1,800 more per year in health care costs. Hungry children struggle academically, requiring more expensive interventions later.
Food assistance also supports workforce stability and generates local economic activity, returning $1.50–$1.80 for every dollar spent.
Feeding the hungry is both compassionate and fiscally prudent. I urge you to uphold policies that strengthen families and reflect the best of our values by voting against HB88 (Public Assistance Amendments).
Mary Elaine Harris, Taylorsville
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